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Explore the Beauty of Fraser Island, Australia

Just off the coast of Queensland is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fraser Island. At 76 miles in length and 13 miles at its widest point (124 and 22 kilometers respectively), it’s the largest sand island in the world, and the only place on Earth where ancient rainforests grow in sand along the banks of pristine creeks.

It’s also spectacularly gorgeous, with endless stretches of beautiful beaches, striking sandy cliffs, eucalyptus woodlands, and over 100 freshwater lakes in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Naturally, the fauna and flora here are abundantly diverse, with 47 species of mammals including the protected Fraser Island dingo, 79 species of reptiles, 354 species of birds, and hundreds of species of plants. And the waters surrounding the island, are renowned for whale watching, especially humpbacks.

One of the best ways to explore Fraser Island is by four-wheel drive (4WD). Be sure to go for a drive along the aptly named 75-Mile Beach — home to the Maheno shipwreck, Champagne Pools swimming spot, Indian Head volcanic rock formations, and some of the best beach fishing in the world.

Experience the world-renowned Fraser Island when you sail to Australia with Azamara Club Cruises®.

Fraser Island, Australia Highlights

Lake McKenzie

One of Fraser Island’s most popular sites, Lake McKenzie isn’t fed by streams, nor does it flow to the ocean. In fact, it’s comprised solely of rainwater, and the pure, white silica sand surrounding this perched lake prevents drainage of any kind, making the water crystal-clear and the bottom silky smooth.

SS Maheno

Fraser Island has a number of shipwrecks and the SS Maheno is by far its most famous. The ocean liner used to cross the Tasman Sea between New Zealand and Australia from 1905 until 1935, when it was struck by cyclone while on its way to a wrecking yard. It remains a popular attraction, even as it has slowly deteriorated over time.

Bird Watching

With 354 recorded bird species, Fraser Island is a veritable birder’s paradise. In addition to its many rare and vulnerable species, there is everything from 11 types of honeyeaters and 18 birds of prey species (like the white-bellied sea eagle), to Australian kookaburras and wading birds that migrate from as far away as Siberia.